Whitney discusses new album in intimate conversation

ise, even though his newfound romantic happiness is tinged with anxiety as he navigates the challenges of immigration to bring his wife to the United States. The uncertainty of bureaucratic processes adds a layer of fear to his emotions as he spends time apart from his wife while Whitney wraps up its summer tour, with the final show planned at Bell’s Brewery in Kalamazoo on August 15.
This tour marks the culmination of a busy schedule for Whitney, opening for alt/folk band Caamp earlier this year and preparing for the release of their fourth studio album, Small Talk, on November 7. Written and produced by Ehrlich and guitarist Max Kakacek, the album was recorded last summer in Chicago, with various friends joining in to contribute to the music. Despite the time-consuming mixing process, Ehrlich is proud of the work put into this album, emphasizing the band’s growth as musicians.
Whitney’s journey began in 2015 with Ehrlich and Kakacek forming the band after departing from their previous musical endeavors. Drawing inspiration from country-soul sounds, Whitney quickly established themselves as a festival favorite, performing at major events in the United States and internationally, building a strong following along the way. Ehrlich acknowledges the band’s progression, stating that their new songs add complexity to their live performances, reflecting their musical maturity over the years.
The band’s latest singles, “Dandelion” and “Darling,” provide a taste of the upcoming album, with “Dandelion” delving into themes of heartache based on personal experiences of moving across the country for relationships that ended abruptly. Ehrlich mentions influences such as The Band and Nick Drake contributing to the album’s sound, with a nod to Neil Young’s theatrical style in one particular track. The album reportedly signifies a return to their earlier sound, injecting new life into their music while maintaining their signature style.
Ehrlich’s poignant lyrics often explore melancholic themes, reflecting the somber atmosphere prevalent in today’s society. Despite the band’s upbeat music, there is an underlying depth to their songs that resonates with listeners on an emotional level. The title of the album, “Small Talk,” reflects Ehrlich’s aversion to superficial conversations, aiming to create music that provokes profound and powerful reactions from the audience.
With Whitney continuing to evolve creatively and emotionally with their music, fans can expect an immersive and thought-provoking experience from their upcoming album and live shows, where the band’s growth and introspective exploration shine through.